“The fact that it happened the way it happened, I wasn’t planning on it, but I’ve always said that I would be here for a minimum of 10 years or unless it was preferred that I would not be here as chief,” Lopez said.

The city manager says his decision came from a culmination of issues

He says some of his concerns centered on rising crime rates and employee morale.

“The morale issue with the police department really involves a pay issue that has been here since 2007,” said Lopez.

Under his leadership, the department has faced allegations of racial bias, an increase in violent crime, and a lack of community policing leading to uproars in the community.

“I have to say the criticism I’ve heard has been from a fractured portion of this community it hasn’t been from the community,” said Lopez.

He also specifically addressed racial bias.

“Anyone who wants to take a moment to read the real data that’s in a lot of our reports on our website regarding traffic stops would clearly see that this organization is not involved in racial bias,” Lopez said.

As for any regrets, “Let’s see,” Lopez thought “None that come to mind to be quite honest with you,” he added.

Chief Lopez says one of the biggest needs of the department is more officers.

“I think the biggest challenge is growing a police department that did not grow when I was here,” he said.

Chief Lopez also greatly defended the officers he’s led for 8 years.

“I encountered a group of extremely professional individuals and they’re the ones I’m going to miss,” said Lopez while holding back tears.

He says the department he’s leaving, is one he’s thankful to have worked for.